The SEND Network Podcast

The SEND Network Podcast
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The SEND Network Podcast is produced by the SEND Network, and provides expert insight  to help practitioners in the special educational needs and disabilities sector to shape their practice

  1. Season 9 Episode 3: Emotionally Based School Avoidance: Identification, Intervention and Support

    5D AGO

    Season 9 Episode 3: Emotionally Based School Avoidance: Identification, Intervention and Support

    In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, host Georgie Green is joined by Dr. Daniel Weisberg, Founder and Managing Director of CAYP Psychology, to explore the growing challenge of children and young people who find attending school emotionally overwhelming. While many children occasionally resist going to school, this conversation focuses on those for whom simply getting through the school gates feels impossible. Daniel explains the crucial difference between typical reluctance and emotionally based school avoidance, the role anxiety plays, and why masking can mean difficulties go unnoticed for years. Together, they discuss: Early warning signs for parents and educatorsThe importance of sensitive, collaborative support plansPractical classroom adjustments that protect dignityHow to communicate with anxious children without increasing pressureWhat can be done to prevent escalationThis episode offers thoughtful, evidence-informed insight for SEND practitioners, school leaders and families seeking to better understand and support children experiencing school-related anxiety. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network

    35 min
  2. Season 9 Episode 2: Supporting Neurodivergent Staff in Schools

    FEB 4

    Season 9 Episode 2: Supporting Neurodivergent Staff in Schools

    In this returning episode of the SEND Network Podcast, Georgie Green is joined once again by Simon Airey, neurodiversity consultant, early years and primary inclusion specialist, and teacher for an open and honest conversation about neurodivergent staff in education. Drawing on his recent autism diagnosis and 25 years of classroom experience, Simon reflects on the often-unseen realities of working in schools as a neurodivergent professional. The discussion explores reasonable adjustments for staff, sensory overload in shared spaces, autistic burnout, masking, and why inclusion must extend beyond pupils to the adults supporting them every day. Simon also shares practical insights for school leaders, colleagues and aspiring teachers, highlighting how lived experience can strengthen relationships with pupils and families, and how small changes in workplace culture can make a meaningful difference. 🎧 Available to listen on all major podcast platforms 📺 Watch the full episode now on the SEND Network

    39 min
  3. Season 9 Episode 1: Creating true inclusion in schools: practical strategies for neurodiverse learners with Dr Freya Spicer-White

    JAN 28

    Season 9 Episode 1: Creating true inclusion in schools: practical strategies for neurodiverse learners with Dr Freya Spicer-White

    Georgie Green is joined by consultant clinical psychologist Dr Freya Spicer-White to explore what true inclusion really looks like in schools. Drawing on her experience across specialist education, Dr Spicer-White shares practical, low-cost strategies that educators can use to create calmer, more inclusive environments for neurodiverse children and young people. The conversation covers everything from classroom design and sensory considerations to early identification, working collaboratively with parents, and supporting staff wellbeing. In this episode, Georgie and Freya discuss: What “true inclusion” means in practice for schools and classroomsCreating calm, inclusive environments through simple environmental changesSpotting early signs that a child may be strugglingHow and when to involve parents in supportive conversationsSupporting neurodiverse learners through movement, sensory regulation and routineNormalising difference and building understanding among peersWhy staff wellbeing is central to inclusive education

    34 min
  4. 7. How to manage meetings as a SENDCO with Ginny Bootman

    12/17/2025

    7. How to manage meetings as a SENDCO with Ginny Bootman

    In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Ginny Bootman to discuss how SENDCOs can manage meetings in the best way possible. They discuss what can be done pre, during and post each meeting to support children and their parents carers.  Roy Leighton's website (mentioned in this episode) can be found here. About Ginny Ginny has been teaching longer than she hasn't. She has been a Headteacher, Senior Manager and Class teacher, teaching all ages in the Primary age range.  Working to support SENDCOs and teachers across special, primary and secondary schools, Ginny is able to bring experience, wisdom and common sense to an area that can sometimes get bogged down in jargon and paperwork.  Her view is that by 'flattening the hierarchy' schools are more able to connect fully with their families. In doing so, they are better placed to help build the home-school trust so sorely needed in order to help vulnerable children thrive.  Through her highly-regarded book and also her published articles, podcast appearances and speaking engagements for schools, MATS and national events such as The National SEN Conference, The Education Show Wales and NASEN Live, Ginny shares straightforward tips and ideas that save time and energy for all those working with our most vulnerable children.  Drawing on her lived experiences as a working SENDCO, Ginny quickly relates to her audience and not only reassures them about the important work they are doing at a difficult time but also challenges them – nicely, kindly and with humour – to be even better. She is the Author of ‘Independent Thinking On Being A SENDCO’ and has recently become an Associate of Independent Thinking https://www.independentthinking.co.uk/speakers/ginny-bootman/

    44 min
  5. 6. Building universal communication support in schools with Sophie Mustoe-Playfair and Juliet Leonard (Speech & Language Link)

    12/03/2025

    6. Building universal communication support in schools with Sophie Mustoe-Playfair and Juliet Leonard (Speech & Language Link)

    In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Juliet and Sophie from Speech & Language Link to discuss how to build universal communication support in schools.  About Sophie Sophie is a Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at Speech & Language Link, with a career dedicated to supporting schools and early years providers across both mainstream and specialist settings. Her work focuses on helping educators confidently identify and support children with speech, language and communication needs, ensuring every child can access learning and thrive.  About Juliet Juliet is senior creative speech and language therapist at Speech & Language Link. With over 25 years experience, she combines research and innovation with a strategic clinical role in independent SEMH and mainstream schools. About Speech & Language Link This episode is sponsored by Speech & Language Link. Speech & Language Link work with schools, MATs, LAs and NHS speech and language therapy teams to help support children with speech, language and communication needs in school, whether that’s through screening tools, intervention materials, guidance, training and support from a therapist-backed help desk.  Check out their SEND Network profile, including all their content, here. You can find Speech & Language Link intervention tools and packages here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

    29 min
  6. 5. Inclusive writing and assistive technology with Dr. Sarah Moseley

    11/26/2025

    5. Inclusive writing and assistive technology with Dr. Sarah Moseley

    In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Dr. Sarah Moseley to discuss inclusive writing and assistive technology, the topic of Sarah's upcoming book.  Sarah and Georgie discuss:  What is inclusive writing and what role does it play in the mainstream classroom? How can practitioners support agency and expression?How can assistive technology support writing skills? About Dr. Sarah Moseley Sarah provides face-to-face and online training, coaching, consultancy, and keynote presentations for professionals and families across all sectors. With over 30 years’ experience in both special and mainstream education, from teaching assistant to Headteacher, she specialises in removing barriers to learning and improving outcomes for all children and young people. Her work bridges research and practice, creating inclusive cultures where high expectations and accessibility go hand in hand. She holds a Master’s and PhD in Special Education, with a focus on reading and self-esteem, and is the author of Teaching Reading to All Learners Including Those with Complex Needs.  She is currently writing her next book, Writing for All, which explores inclusive and adaptive approaches to teaching writing. Passionate about equity in education, she believes every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. You can find out more here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

    20 min
  7. The SEND Network Podcast Special Edition: Live at the Tes SEND Show 2025

    11/10/2025

    The SEND Network Podcast Special Edition: Live at the Tes SEND Show 2025

    In this special edition of the SEND Network Podcast, recorded at the Tes SEND Show, we speak with a range of speakers, exhibitors, and guests to capture their insights, experiences, and reflections from across the event. From classroom innovation to inclusive practice and whole-school approaches, this episode brings together voices from across the SEND community sharing what inspired them at this year’s show. Featuring: 00:43 - Dr. Asha Patel, Clinical Psychologist & CEO, Innovating Minds 02:16 - Tom Rees, Chief Executive of Ormiston Academies Trust and Strategic Advisor, SEND, DfE 03:05 - Dame Christine Lenehan, Strategic Advisor, SEND, DfE 03:45 - Dr Becky Baxter, Director of Education and Speech and Language Therapy, Down Syndrome UK 05:10 - Maria Taylor, International Director of Training 06:42 - Richard Lightfoot, Assistant Head Teacher 08:11 -  Linda Francis, Head Teacher 09:29 - Stuart Plumridge, Nessy 13:30 - Cheryl Warren, Aperion Training 16:54 - Kirsty Maidment, AQA 18:43 - Lee Blemings, Guru Ltd

    23 min

  8. 10/22/2025

    4. The importance of neuromotor development in early education with Elizabeth Cordle pt.2

    In this episode of The SEND Network Podcast, Georgie is joined by Elizabeth Cordle to discuss the importance of neuromotor development in early education. This is part two of a two part series.  Elizabeth and Georgie discuss:  The importance of motor maturityFactors which might cause slower neuromotor development in the early yearsNeuromotor development and SENDAbout Elizabeth Cordle  Elizabeth Cordle is the founder of Corefulness and a Chartered Physiotherapist.  Over many years her work has been wonderfully varied but her main focus has been on rehabilitation which encompasses identifying the root causes of problems and providing solutions. You can find out about Corefulness here. The SEND Network For more information and resources, access the Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)

    22 min
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About

The SEND Network Podcast is produced by the SEND Network, and provides expert insight  to help practitioners in the special educational needs and disabilities sector to shape their practice

Information

  • Creator
    The SEND Network Podcast
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The SEND Network Podcast
  • Show Website
    The SEND Network Podcast

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